New Middle Eastern

We first spotted the new restaurant back in February when a banner was posted announcing the future home of “Aladdin Express.”

The Middle Eastern restaurant is in the Highland Village Plaza, at 7249 Boulder Ave., Suite A4.

Thanks to readers Joan and Mike, both of whom contacted me about the new restaurant and spoke very highly about the food.

Claremont update

A few weeks ago, fellow columnist and man-about-Claremont David Allen told us about the closure of Il Mattone Trattoria Italiana, among other Claremont changes.

Recently he also discovered what was replacing Il Mattone — The Quarter, a Creole restaurant.

According to a flier posted at the site, 201 N. Indian Hill Blvd., The Quarter is coming to us courtesy of the founding executive chef of Roux Creole Cuisine in Laguna Beach, Norm Theard.

The restaurant is expected to open in October.

New in Rialto

Renaissance Marketplace in Rialto finally has a new eatery — but it’s not what you might expect.

Cinemark Movie Bistro, opened last week as part of the new Cinemark theater, 1355 W. Renaissance Parkway. The new restaurant serves a variety of entreés, along with beer and cocktails, for pre- and post-screening dining.

However, you don’t need a movie ticket to eat there…the restaurant is open to all.